FORMER Latvia star Gints Freimanis has passed away from cancer aged 38.

The former right-back died after being diagnosed with skin cancer in October 2021.

Freimanis was told he had stage four cancer before undergoing an operation.

But in January doctors informed him the cancer had spread to his brain.

Freimanis was still playing professional football at the time before making the decision to retire.

He said: "Unfortunately, during routine examinations on January 17, metastases in my head were discovered. 

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"I need your help to continue the treatment. May God have mercy!"

Freimanis spent almost his entire career playing in Latvia, and most recently starred for Saldus.

He made one appearance for Irish side St Pat's in 2009 and also had a brief spell in Germany.

But Freimanis did clock up 13 appearances for Latvia, scoring one goal.

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Tributes have now poured in, with the Latvia FA leading the way.

A statement read: "Gints Freimanis will always be remembered by fans as a relentless fighter on the field who was ready for anything for his team.'

"At this sad moment, the LFF expresses its deepest condolences to Gint's family, relatives, friends, colleagues and the entire Latvian football community."

Another tribute read: "Thoughts go out to his loved ones and friends."

One said: "He has been a great warrior, brave and a hero of European soccer.

"It has been a tireless work, you were a good sportsman, may he rest in peace, condolences to the family."

Another added: "Gints Freimanis will always remain in the memory of the fans as an unyielding fighter on the field, who did not cross the path of any opponent and was ready for anything for the sake of his team.

"A real working man with high principles of life and radiant goodness."

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